UPM is one of the largest private forest owners in Europe and holds significant land holdings in the United States (US) and Uruguay. In Uruguay, UPM owns 305,000 ha of land, including eucalyptus plantations, grasslands, and conservation areas. In Uruguay, approximately 40% of UPM land maintains the native vegetation, creating a significant opportunity for biodiversity conservation; almost half of these areas are protected (19%).
– The UPM Forest Action programme demonstrates concrete actions that we are carrying out, and establishes specific measures for important matters concerning forests, says Alvaro Fitipaldo, the Director of Forestry Operations in UPM Uruguay.
Providing economic opportunities for rural communities
Social contribution is one of the key themes defined in the UPM Forest Action programme. In Uruguay, the social contribution work is mainly guided through the UPM Foundation. Established in 2006, the UPM Foundation works in coordination with local stakeholders to promote the development of rural communities through projects related to education, training, and entrepreneurship. It has been working with more than 150 communities in the interior of the country.
– One of the most important areas of the programme here in Uruguay is social contribution. The 150 communities we work with is a large number for a small country. The economic opportunities we provide for rural communities are massive, Fitipaldo explains.
A better world for future generations
Innovation and sustainable product development are important factors in UPM’s business, and our aspiration is high when we look at the opportunities to respond to the global climate challenge.
– Over the last 30 years, the business has evolved and the processes we use have changed. Today, we work with the best available technology, much more high-tech than we could have envisioned. The trees have been genetically improved significantly over the last thirty years. We are on an entirely new level, on all accounts, today. This helps us leave behind a better world for future generations, Fitipaldo celebrates.
Nature is important to Alvaro Fitipaldo, offering a place to rest and recharge in the midst of busy everyday life.
– Coming to the forest is a moment of disconnection, but it’s also reconnecting with what really matters. It is the connection with nature that allows me to recharge energy and brings me the satisfaction for seeing the positive impacts of our operations, Fitipaldo explains.
Read more about the UPM Forest Action programme.
Download the Forest Action report